New laws aim to crack down on domestic violence

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed three bills today to strengthen laws aimed at protecting people against domestic violence such as harassment, stalking and indecent exposure.

The first bill establishes a new charge for first degree public lewdness, classified as a class A misdemeanor, according to the press release. This charge will apply to individuals aged 19 or older who intentionally expose themselves to children under the age of 16, and is punishable by up to one year in county jail.

A second bill expands the crime of stalking to include the unauthorized use of a GPS or other electronic device to track another individual — strengthening the legislation also known as Jackie’s Law. Cuomo also signed a bill to reinstate the state’s aggravated harassment law, which includes threats and intimidation.

Cuomo said an alleged violation of these laws is an important tool for domestic violence victims who pursue a court-issued order of protection.